TEHRAN, November 18 - Five American senators in a letter to US Secretary of State Rex W. Tillerson urged US to accelerate relief donations process to quake-stricken people in western Iran.

TEHRAN, Young Journalists Club (YJC) - “We write today concerning the recent earthquake that struck Iran on November 12. The latest reports indicate over 500 dead and thousands wounded, making this earthquake the world’s deadliest of the year. We urge you temporarily waive any existing restrictions that would impede relief donations in order to speed the delivery of aid,” the letter reads.

The letter has been signed by Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, Al Franken, Tom Carper and Dianne Feinstein.

Despite decades of animosity and no formal diplomatic relations, the United States has routinely offered to help the Iranian people in times of need. This time should be no different.

We ask that you direct the Department of State to assist in aid efforts and to coordinate such efforts with OFAC and other relevant agencies in order to ensure aid arrives quickly.”

A 7.3-magnitude earthquake shook the western province of Kermanshah and the regions bordering Iraq on Nov 12. The quake was felt in some neighboring countries as well.

Based on the latest statistics, at least 436 people have been killed and over 9,000 injured in quake-stricken areas in Iran.